Cherry blossom season has officially begun in Japan, with multiple regions announcing the blooming of the iconic Somei Yoshino variety. On March 26, 2025, the Shimonoseki Local Meteorological Observatory confirmed that the cherry blossoms had started blooming in Shimonoseki, Yamaguchi Prefecture. This announcement came as meteorological staff observed approximately five blossoms on the sample tree at their observatory.
The blooming date of March 26 aligns with the average timing for this natural spectacle, occurring three days earlier than in 2024. On the same day, temperatures soared above 25 degrees Celsius across various locations in Yamaguchi Prefecture, contributing to the early flowering. As the weather continues to warm, the Somei Yoshino cherry blossoms are expected to reach full bloom by early April, providing an excellent opportunity for hanami, or flower viewing, for residents and visitors alike.
In Hofu City, also in Yamaguchi Prefecture, early-blooming cherry blossoms were seen dancing in the spring breeze, marking the arrival of the season. One particularly notable tree is the Itozakura at Nanmeiji Temple, which boasts a history of over 350 years. This ancient tree has been a source of joy for visitors since the Edo period. Although the blossoms typically reach their peak by mid-March, this year’s bloom was delayed by about a week due to winter weather conditions. The Itozakura is expected to remain in bloom until the end of March 2025, allowing many to enjoy its beauty.
Meanwhile, in Chiba Prefecture, Katsuuyama City announced on March 24, 2025, that the cherry blossoms at Katsuuyama Castle Park had begun to bloom. This announcement came four days earlier than last year, with approximately 400 cherry trees in the park anticipated to be at their best from early to mid-April. The park, known for its picturesque setting near the castle, is a popular spot for locals and tourists looking to experience the beauty of cherry blossoms.
On the same day as the announcement in Yamaguchi, the Wakayama Local Meteorological Observatory declared that cherry blossoms had begun blooming in Wakayama. This marked the earliest bloom in the Kansai region, occurring four days earlier than the previous year, although it was two days later than the average bloom date. At around 10:00 AM, officials confirmed that more than five flowers had bloomed on the Somei Yoshino trees at Kimii-dera Temple. The temple grounds quickly filled with visitors eager to witness the arrival of spring.
Among those celebrating the blossoms was a woman in her 60s, who was temporarily returning from Brazil with her husband. She expressed her excitement, stating, "I have been checking the benchmark tree for five consecutive days and was looking forward to the blooming. This is my first time returning to Japan at this time of year in 40 years. I want to see the cherry blossoms for a long time, and I'm about to cry." This sentiment captures the emotional connection many have with the cherry blossoms, which symbolize the transient beauty of life.
Looking ahead, an investigator from the Wakayama Local Meteorological Observatory warned that the blooming might be delayed due to expected rain and a drop in temperatures starting March 28. However, he projected that the trees would likely reach full bloom within a week to ten days, ensuring that the cherry blossom season would still be a highlight for many.
As the cherry blossoms continue to bloom across Japan, parks and public spaces are preparing for the influx of visitors. In Shimonoseki, for instance, the Kaikyo Yume Tower Park, renowned for its cherry blossoms, has set up flower viewing lanterns that will be lit from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM until April 13, 2025. This festive atmosphere is expected to attract both locals and tourists, eager to partake in the traditional hanami celebrations.
The cherry blossom season holds significant cultural importance in Japan, representing renewal and the fleeting nature of beauty. As families and friends gather under the blooming trees, they celebrate not just the beauty of the blossoms but also the arrival of spring and the cherished moments spent together.
With the blooming season officially underway, many are taking the opportunity to plan their hanami outings, whether it be in the parks of Yamaguchi, the historical sites of Chiba, or the serene temples of Wakayama. As the blossoms continue to unfold, one thing is clear: the beauty of the cherry blossoms brings people together, creating memories that last a lifetime.
